Hello, Newbie Here!

[MurphyJB]

Hey Jroocan,
My fiancé is a USMC vet as well. He was over there in 04 and 05.
It sounds like he struggled/ is struggling with a lot of the same things you are.
He just recently got diagnosed 50% by the VA. I was hoping for more, but I don't think we would ever go through the whole process again.

 

[Ted Moen]

WWII vets had few alternatives other than becoming an alcoholic or workaholic or both to deal with their ptsd symptoms. Today we have better alternatives. The first step is getting off drugs and/or alcohol, then committing to therapy and learning to manage the behavior that occurs when you are experiencing symptoms. The VA just came out with a new tool, the ptsd coach, which you can download to your iPhone, iPod or iPad, which can help. I've been playing with it this week. The android version will be out in a month or so. I love their little anger thermometer.

VA disability % is based on disruption of your ability to work and function due to ptsd, not alcohol. It will be hard to get an increase if the disruption is seen as due to alcohol.

It is hard, but if you can stick with participating in the dependency programs and the ptsd programs and learn to manage your symptoms in your current situation, the VA will provide the support you need.

Ted

 

[Steph_F]

and we are here to support you in everything as well. Even in the dark when you feel the most alone try to remember you are not alone. keep talking, sharing, venting...it's all good stuff!